Evaluation of linearity characterization techniques for multicarrier solid-state power amplifiers

Terrestrial and satellite wireless systems require multicarrier operation of solid-state power amplifiers within specific linearity specifications. This paper evaluates candidate linearity measurement techniques that can be used for linearity characterization, including digital and analog noise-power ratio methods, and three-carrier intermodulation measurements. A correlation between these techniques is made for a specific power amplifier under accelerated life test conditions.